JRL Group and development partner Halcyon have secured planning permission for a major residential redevelopment in Sutton town centre, transforming a vacant office building into a 359-unit co-living development. The approved scheme will see the former St Nicholas House office block undergo an extensive refurbishment and extension, creating a modern residential building reaching 15 storeys. Designed by Assael Architecture, the development represents a significant investment in Sutton’s residential property market and forms part of wider regeneration ambitions for the town centre and civic quarter. The project will combine new residential accommodation with commercial facilities, community space and public realm improvements, bringing a previously vacant commercial property back into use. Major Office-to-Residential Transformation The redevelopment will involve the partial demolition, retention and extension of the existing 12-storey office building, increasing its height to 15 storeys. Rather than demolishing the entire structure, the development team has adopted a retention-led construction strategy intended to reduce embodied carbon and limit the environmental impact associated with constructing an entirely new building. The approach reflects the growing importance of adaptive reuse within the UK residential development sector, particularly as developers seek opportunities to convert ageing commercial buildings into modern accommodation. The completed scheme will deliver 359 co-living units, providing professionally managed residential accommodation supported by shared facilities and communal spaces. Co-living developments have become an increasingly prominent part of the urban residential market, offering an alternative housing format designed around private accommodation and shared amenities. For Sutton, the scheme will introduce additional housing capacity within an established town centre location while supporting the regeneration of an underused commercial site. New Commercial and Community Facilities Alongside the residential accommodation, the redevelopment will introduce flexible commercial space, including a café and co-working facilities. A key element of the proposals is the provision of a permanent home for The Sound Lounge, an established music venue and community destination. The inclusion of cultural and commercial facilities will help create a mixed-use environment, supporting activity within the building and contributing to the surrounding town centre. The development will also deliver approximately 1,400 sq m of public realm improvements, including a new pedestrian route through the site. These improvements are intended to strengthen connectivity and accessibility, integrating the residential development more effectively with surrounding streets and public spaces. Retention-Led Construction Supports Sustainability The decision to retain and extend the existing building forms an important part of the project’s construction strategy. By preserving substantial elements of the former office structure, JRL Group and Halcyon aim to reduce the embodied carbon associated with demolition and replacement construction. The project will nevertheless involve significant structural alterations, additional floors and the integration of new residential accommodation within the existing building. For the construction sector, the development presents opportunities across structural engineering, façade works, mechanical and electrical services, residential fit-out and public realm improvements. It also demonstrates how older commercial buildings can be repositioned to meet changing property market demands while retaining elements of their existing structural fabric. Strong Support for Residential Regeneration Plans Sutton Council approved the planning application under delegated powers following a consultation process that attracted more than 100 representations in support and just one objection. The decision clears a major planning hurdle for the development partners, allowing the project to progress towards its next delivery stages. JRL Group and Halcyon first unveiled the Sutton proposals in June 2025 as part of their expanding partnership focused on co-living developments. The two organisations are also progressing proposals for a separate 329-unit co-living scheme on Woking High Street, demonstrating their continued interest in delivering this residential accommodation model. Supporting Sutton’s Wider Regeneration The redevelopment of St Nicholas House forms part of wider ambitions to revitalise Sutton town centre and its civic quarter. By converting a vacant office building into residential accommodation, the project will introduce new residents and activity into the area while creating additional commercial and community facilities. The development also reflects a wider trend across the UK property sector, where redundant or underused office buildings are increasingly being considered for residential conversion and mixed-use redevelopment. With planning permission now secured, the 359-unit scheme represents an important addition to Sutton’s residential development pipeline. Once completed, the transformed St Nicholas House will combine modern co-living accommodation, commercial space, cultural facilities and improved public areas, contributing to the long-term regeneration of Sutton town centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Heaton Group is preparing to progress the next major phases of its £180 million Cotton Works regeneration in Wigan, following planning approval for 179 new rental homes at the former Eckersley Mills complex. The ambitious development will transform the historic industrial site into a new mixed-use neighbourhood, combining residential accommodation with commercial, hospitality and leisure facilities. The latest approval marks an important milestone for the local developer, which has already completed the first phase of the regeneration through the restoration of the Grade II-listed Mill One. Attention is now turning to the delivery of Block A, a six-storey residential building that will introduce modern rental accommodation within the wider Cotton Works masterplan. 179 New Homes Planned for Cotton Works Block A will provide 179 one- and two-bedroom private rented homes on the former site of Mill Two, which has been demolished to make way for the new development. Positioned between the existing Mill One and Mill Three buildings, the residential scheme will form a central part of the emerging neighbourhood. Architectural practice Fletcher Rae is progressing the detailed design, working alongside a professional team that includes Brennan Consult, QED, Paul Butler Associates and OFR Consultants. The project will introduce new-build residential accommodation alongside the retained historic mill buildings, combining contemporary architecture with the site’s industrial heritage. A main contractor has not yet been formally appointed, although Heaton Group has previously delivered projects through its own construction business, HG Developments, including the restoration of Mill One. The next stage of the development will represent a substantial construction opportunity, with the residential scheme requiring new structural works, building services, internal fit-out and associated infrastructure. £14m Funding to Support Residential Development The Block A development has also received a significant financial boost, with Greater Manchester allocating £14 million from its Good Growth Fund to help unlock the scheme. The funding will support the progression of the residential phase and contribute to the wider regeneration of the former industrial complex. The investment reflects the importance of bringing previously developed urban sites back into productive use, particularly where regeneration projects can deliver additional housing alongside employment and community facilities. For Wigan, the new homes will form part of a wider programme intended to revitalise the former mill estate and create a sustainable mixed-use destination. Historic Mill Buildings Given New Purpose Heaton Group has already completed the transformation of Grade II-listed Mill One, establishing the first major element of the Cotton Works development. The restored building now accommodates the developer’s headquarters, Grade A office space, The Three Mills pub and rooftop bar and events facilities. The successful refurbishment has demonstrated the potential to retain and repurpose the site’s historic industrial buildings while introducing modern commercial and hospitality uses. Work is also progressing on plans for the redevelopment of Mill Three. Earlier proposals to convert the Grade II-listed building into 137 apartments have been abandoned in favour of a new commercial and leisure scheme. The revised plans include the restoration of the historic engine house and boiler house, retaining important elements of the site’s industrial character while creating opportunities for new occupiers and visitors. Together, Block A and Mill Three will form the next major construction phases at Cotton Works. Further Residential and Commercial Development Planned The wider £180 million masterplan includes additional residential accommodation, commercial space, public realm improvements and a hotel. The combination of new housing, restored heritage buildings and modern leisure facilities is intended to establish Cotton Works as a distinctive destination within Wigan. The development also reflects a growing emphasis on the regeneration of former industrial sites, where existing buildings can be adapted for contemporary uses while new residential accommodation is introduced on surrounding land. For the construction and property sectors, Cotton Works represents a significant long-term development programme involving heritage restoration, new-build housing, commercial refurbishment and public realm improvements. With planning permission secured for Block A and detailed design progressing, Heaton Group is moving closer to delivering the next major stage of its regeneration plans. The 179-home residential development, together with the proposed refurbishment of Mill Three, will provide further momentum for the transformation of the former Eckersley Mills complex, supporting Wigan’s ongoing residential and commercial regeneration.

One of Greater Manchester’s most prominent Build to Rent (BTR) residential developments has been brought to market, with the 44-storey Anaconda Cut tower in Salford understood to be valued at approximately £100 million. Located at 100 Greengate, close to Manchester city centre, the landmark residential building comprises 349 apartments and represents a significant investment opportunity within the UK’s growing operational Build to Rent market. The development offers a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside penthouse accommodation, and has been operational since welcoming its first residents in March 2019. Designed by OMI Architects and originally developed by Renaker, Anaconda Cut has become a distinctive feature of the Manchester and Salford skyline, contributing to the wider transformation of the Greengate regeneration district. Landmark Residential Development in Salford The 44-storey tower is recognised for its contemporary architectural design, incorporating an extensive glazed façade, gold-coloured reflective panels and a contrasting lower brick element facing Greengate. Positioned on the Salford side of the River Irwell, the development benefits from its proximity to Manchester’s commercial, retail and leisure districts, making it an established residential destination for city centre renters. Anaconda Cut was designed to provide more than traditional apartment accommodation, incorporating a range of communal amenities intended to support modern urban living. Facilities include a sky lounge on the 43rd floor, communal roof terraces, co-working accommodation, a gym, cinema room, concierge services and dedicated bicycle storage. These facilities reflect the continued evolution of the Build to Rent sector, where residential developers and investors increasingly focus on providing professionally managed accommodation with shared amenities and lifestyle facilities. £100m Investment Opportunity Europa Capital is identified as an investor in Anaconda Cut, having acquired the development alongside Atlas Residential in 2019 through a forward-purchase agreement with Renaker. The original development was also supported by a £33 million loan from Homes England, helping facilitate the delivery of the residential tower. Unlike new development opportunities, Anaconda Cut is an established and operational rental property, with apartments continuing to be marketed across its one, two and three-bedroom categories. The reported £100 million valuation places the development among the substantial residential investment opportunities currently being marketed in Greater Manchester. Its sale comes amid continued investor interest in operational Build to Rent assets, particularly completed developments capable of generating rental income without the construction and delivery risks associated with new schemes. Growing Investment Activity Across the BTR Sector The marketing of Anaconda Cut follows further activity involving Europa Capital’s UK residential investments. In Hounslow, West London, the company’s operational 118-home residential development at One Lampton Road was sold to LRC Group. Meanwhile, Granary Quay, a 342-home Build to Rent development in Glasgow, has also returned to the market following an internal restructuring by its owners. Europa Capital acquired Granary Quay alongside Mitsubishi Estate in 2024, following completion of the residential scheme by Dandara Living. These transactions highlight ongoing activity across the UK’s purpose-built rental housing market, as investors review their residential portfolios and assess opportunities within established urban locations. Manchester’s Build to Rent Market Continues to Evolve Greater Manchester has experienced substantial residential development activity over recent years, with high-rise apartment buildings playing an increasingly important role in the regeneration of former commercial and industrial districts. Greengate, in particular, has emerged as a major residential development location, benefiting from its position immediately north of Manchester city centre and close to the River Irwell. Anaconda Cut forms part of this wider transformation, demonstrating how large-scale residential investment has helped reshape Salford’s urban environment. For the property investment and residential development sectors, the proposed sale provides another example of how completed Build to Rent schemes are becoming established investment assets. With 349 apartments, extensive resident amenities and a prominent location, Anaconda Cut represents a substantial operational residential property entering the investment market. The sale process will provide a further indication of investor appetite for completed high-rise Build to Rent developments in Manchester, as the city’s residential property market continues to attract institutional interest. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

One of South London’s most ambitious residential regeneration projects is taking shape, with developer Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) revealing fresh proposals to transform Croydon’s Whitgift Centre and surrounding town centre into a new mixed-use neighbourhood delivering up to 4,000 homes. The emerging masterplan, known as The Croydon Project, represents a major shift away from the site’s traditional retail focus, placing residential development, green spaces and community facilities at the heart of the regeneration. The latest proposals were presented to Croydon Council’s Planning Committee and Design Review Panel on 24 September as part of ongoing pre-application discussions. Up to 4,000 Homes Planned for Croydon Town Centre The residential-led redevelopment could deliver between 3,000 and 4,000 new homes, alongside a smaller but higher-quality commercial offering, new public spaces and improved pedestrian connections. The proposed housing development would incorporate buildings of varying heights, including four residential towers ranging from 30 to 45 storeys along Wellesley Road. Building heights would gradually reduce towards the historic North End corridor, helping to manage the development’s relationship with neighbouring conservation areas and established town centre architecture. The proposals aim to replace the existing shopping centre environment with a network of streets, squares and residential buildings, creating a more traditional urban neighbourhood where people can live, work, shop and socialise. URW Programme Director Paul Eaton explained to councillors that the transformation would create an environment significantly different from the existing Whitgift Centre, with interconnected public spaces designed to encourage movement throughout the development. New Public Square and Green Spaces A central feature of the regeneration proposals is The Forum, a new public square designed to accommodate community gatherings, cultural activities and events for up to 2,000 people. The masterplan also includes a proposed landscaped green space, provisionally named Whitgift Park, providing residents and visitors with an accessible area for recreation and relaxation. Together, these new public spaces would form an important part of the development’s residential environment, supporting the creation of a neighbourhood rather than simply replacing the existing retail accommodation. Improved pedestrian routes and connections between the new buildings and surrounding streets are also being explored as part of the emerging design. For the construction and architectural sectors, the scale of the proposed development would create substantial opportunities across high-rise residential construction, structural engineering, building services, landscaping and public realm improvements. £31.5m Property Acquisition Unlocks Regeneration Plans The latest proposals follow URW’s £31.5 million acquisition of the Whitgift Centre, Green Park House and parts of the former Allders building from the John Whitgift Foundation in July. The transaction represented an important milestone in progressing the regeneration, bringing key property interests together and removing a significant obstacle to advancing the redevelopment plans. URW has indicated that a residential-led approach is necessary to establish the financial viability of the project, with the proposed housing provision expected to underpin the wider transformation of the town centre. However, several important aspects of the scheme remain under consideration. These include the proportion of affordable housing, the provision of family-sized homes, potential leisure facilities and the overall balance between residential and commercial accommodation. The impact of demolition on local heritage assets, pedestrian connectivity and the programme for delivering individual phases will also require further assessment. Outline Planning Application Targeted for 2027 URW is continuing its engagement with Croydon Council through the pre-application planning process, with a formal outline planning application currently targeted for 2027. The emerging proposals have not yet secured planning permission, and further details of the residential accommodation, building designs and delivery programme are expected as the scheme progresses. If brought forward, The Croydon Project would represent a significant transformation of one of South London’s best-known shopping destinations, replacing much of the existing retail-led environment with a substantial new residential neighbourhood. With up to 4,000 homes, new public spaces, commercial accommodation and landmark residential towers, the proposals could reshape Croydon’s town centre and establish a major long-term pipeline of housing development and construction activity. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

David Wilson Homes has secured planning approval for a new 120-home residential development between Hatfield and Welham Green in Hertfordshire, with the scheme set to deliver more than 20% biodiversity net gain alongside new affordable housing, extensive green spaces and significant investment in local infrastructure. Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council has approved the detailed design and layout of the development, which will be located off South Way, following the granting of outline planning permission in autumn 2025. The scheme represents another important addition to Hertfordshire’s residential development pipeline, combining new family housing with environmental improvements, low-carbon building technologies and investment in community facilities. New Homes and Affordable Housing The development will provide 120 new homes, including 90 properties for open market sale and 30 affordable homes, representing 25% of the overall scheme. The open market housing will comprise a mix of two, three and four-bedroom properties, providing accommodation for families and buyers seeking modern homes within the Hatfield area. Two custom-build plots will also be incorporated into the development, offering opportunities for purchasers to create homes tailored to their individual requirements. The affordable housing provision will include a combination of Social Rent, Affordable Rent and Shared Ownership properties, with one to four-bedroom apartments and houses designed to accommodate a broad range of local housing needs. The inclusion of different housing types and tenures is intended to support a mixed residential community, providing opportunities for first-time buyers, families and households requiring affordable accommodation. All properties are planned to meet the Future Homes Standard, incorporating low-carbon heating systems and high levels of energy efficiency. These measures will support the delivery of more sustainable residential accommodation, reflecting the housebuilding sector’s increasing focus on reducing operational carbon emissions and improving the long-term environmental performance of new homes. Biodiversity and Green Infrastructure at the Heart of Development A defining feature of the proposals is the emphasis on biodiversity, landscaping and accessible public open space. Approximately 12 acres of dedicated green space will be incorporated into the development, providing recreational areas for residents while creating new habitats for wildlife. The landscape strategy includes a water meadow, community orchard, birch copse, two ponds and additional meadow areas, alongside two fully equipped children’s play areas. Together, these features are designed to improve ecological connectivity, encourage biodiversity and establish an attractive natural environment throughout the neighbourhood. Council planning officers concluded that the proposed landscaping and habitat improvements would increase biodiversity across the site by more than 20%. This exceeds the statutory 10% biodiversity net gain requirement generally applicable to major residential developments in England, demonstrating a commitment to integrating environmental improvements into the housing scheme. The development will also benefit from its proximity to existing open spaces to the south of Hatfield, helping connect the new neighbourhood with the surrounding landscape. Lauren Potter, Development Director at Barratt David Wilson North Thames, welcomed the approval and highlighted the importance of combining housing delivery with environmental improvements. “This new, sustainable development off South Way will bring forward a new community of quality homes that complement the local area, while also providing much-needed affordable family housing,” she said. “Green space will be at the heart of the plans, with attractive landscaped areas designed to create an appealing setting for residents as well as support biodiversity.” Potter added that the development would provide opportunities for residents to enjoy a greener and better-connected lifestyle, with the landscape proposals expected to deliver biodiversity improvements exceeding 20%. £4m Investment in Education and Community Infrastructure Alongside the new homes, David Wilson Homes will provide a serviced site for a future school, supporting the long-term educational requirements of the growing local community. The development will also generate a £4 million Section 106 contribution towards education and other essential infrastructure and public services. Funding will support primary and secondary education, childcare provision and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) facilities. Additional contributions will be directed towards fire and rescue services, highways improvements, medical facilities and local sports provision. These commitments form an important part of the development’s wider planning obligations, helping ensure that new housing is accompanied by investment in the infrastructure and services needed to support population growth. For the public sector and construction industries, the scheme demonstrates the increasingly important relationship between residential development, community infrastructure and long-term local authority planning. Improved Walking Routes and Public Access The development will also introduce improvements to existing pedestrian and recreational connections across the site. A public footpath and bridleway will be upgraded, while a new ridgeway walk will be created around the perimeter of the development. These improvements will provide enhanced opportunities for walking and outdoor recreation, helping residents access the surrounding countryside and nearby green spaces. The combination of landscaped areas, wildlife habitats and improved public routes is intended to create a neighbourhood where the natural environment forms an integral part of the residential layout. This approach reflects a wider shift in housing design towards creating communities that prioritise accessible green space, active travel and environmental quality alongside the delivery of new homes. Supporting Hertfordshire’s Long-Term Housing Growth The approved scheme forms part of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council’s wider housing strategy, which aims to deliver approximately 13,400 new homes across the borough by 2036. With housing demand continuing to place pressure on local authorities across the South East, developments that combine market housing, affordable accommodation and supporting infrastructure remain central to meeting long-term residential requirements. The South Way development will contribute 120 additional properties towards these ambitions while incorporating measures intended to improve sustainability and biodiversity. For David Wilson Homes, the approval represents an opportunity to demonstrate how modern housebuilding can combine energy-efficient construction, mixed-tenure housing and landscape-led masterplanning. The scheme’s commitment to more than 20% biodiversity net gain is particularly significant as developers increasingly seek to integrate measurable ecological improvements into residential projects. With detailed planning approval now secured, the development moves another step closer to delivering a new neighbourhood between Hatfield and Welham Green. Once completed, the project will provide 120 homes, substantial public open space

Statom’s specialist turnkey delivery business, Fancourt Property Group, has secured a prestigious super prime residential construction contract in Bayswater, Westminster, involving the redevelopment of Esca House into 17 luxury residences. Appointed by Sunley Project Solutions, Fancourt Property Group will oversee a technically demanding redevelopment that combines demolition, façade retention and new construction within one of central London’s most desirable residential locations. The project will involve the demolition of existing elements of Esca House, while retaining the façade across the first two floors, followed by the construction of a new four-storey residential building. A significant engineering challenge will be the development’s location directly above the London Underground’s Circle and District lines, which run beneath the site. This sensitive setting will require careful coordination of demolition, piling, structural engineering and foundation works to ensure the successful delivery of the new building while addressing the constraints associated with constructing above operational railway infrastructure. The scheme represents a substantial undertaking within London’s specialist luxury residential construction market, where complex urban sites, retained architectural features and demanding structural requirements frequently influence the design and delivery process. Integrated Construction Expertise A key feature of the Esca House project will be the involvement of Statom’s vertically integrated construction businesses, enabling multiple specialist disciplines to contribute to the redevelopment under a coordinated delivery structure. Statom Demolition will undertake the demolition works, while Franki Foundations will provide specialist piling expertise. Apex Engineering will be responsible for design services, with Statom Group delivering the foundations and structural frame. Trident Lifting Solutions will provide tower crane services, while Harvill Brickwork will undertake the brickwork package. Mechanical and electrical installations will be delivered by Spark Tech MEP, completing the integrated team responsible for the principal construction disciplines. The involvement of these specialist businesses will enable Fancourt Property Group to coordinate key stages of the programme, from initial demolition and groundworks through to structural construction and building services installation. This approach is particularly relevant to projects involving complex site constraints, where close collaboration between engineering, structural and construction teams is essential. Building Above London’s Underground Network The location of Esca House above the Circle and District lines introduces an additional layer of technical complexity to the redevelopment. Construction projects situated above or close to operational underground railway infrastructure require detailed consideration of structural loading, ground conditions, vibration and the potential impact of construction activities on surrounding assets. For the Esca House development, the combination of demolition, retained façade elements and new structural works will make the coordination of the building’s foundations and frame a particularly important aspect of the delivery strategy. The involvement of Franki Foundations and Apex Engineering will bring specialist expertise to the ground engineering and structural design elements of the project. Meanwhile, the use of Statom’s wider construction capabilities will support the coordination of works across the constrained central London site. Delivering Super Prime Residential Accommodation Bayswater has become an increasingly prominent location within London’s luxury residential market, benefiting from its central position, established architectural character and proximity to Hyde Park and the wider West End. The redevelopment of Esca House will contribute 17 new super prime residences to the area, transforming the existing property into a modern residential building. Projects within this sector frequently require a combination of architectural sensitivity, specialist construction expertise and high standards of building services integration. The retention of existing façade elements at Esca House will also require careful consideration of how the historic or established external building fabric is incorporated into the new structure. For Fancourt Property Group, the appointment demonstrates the capabilities of Statom’s integrated construction model in delivering complex residential developments involving multiple specialist trades and challenging engineering conditions. The scheme also highlights the continuing opportunities for specialist contractors within London’s super prime residential market, particularly where redevelopment involves constrained sites, retained structures and significant below-ground infrastructure. With seven specialist construction businesses contributing to the project, the Esca House redevelopment will bring together expertise spanning demolition, piling, structural engineering, lifting operations, brickwork and mechanical and electrical services. The completed four-storey development will deliver 17 luxury residences in Bayswater, representing another example of the technically demanding construction and redevelopment projects shaping London’s high-end residential property sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

HG Construction has secured £225 million of construction contracts from developer FEC to deliver four new residential buildings in Manchester, marking a major step forward in the transformation of the Red Bank neighbourhood within the ambitious Victoria North regeneration programme. The appointment will see HG Construction deliver a total of 895 new homes across two development plots, NT02 and NT03, supporting the continued expansion of one of Manchester’s most significant residential regeneration areas. The contracts represent a substantial investment in the next phase of Red Bank, where FEC is progressing plans to establish a new residential neighbourhood north of Manchester city centre, supported by improved infrastructure, public spaces and green amenities. At plot NT02, HG Construction will deliver a 34-storey residential tower comprising 316 apartments. The development will represent FEC’s first build-to-rent (BTR) scheme within the neighbourhood, introducing professionally managed rental accommodation to the emerging residential district. Construction at NT02 is scheduled to commence immediately, with completion anticipated by 2029. The second contract covers plot NT03, where three residential buildings named Falcon, Kingfisher and Midrise will provide a further 579 homes. Construction of these buildings is expected to begin in early 2027, subject to securing Gateway 2 approval from the Building Safety Regulator under the Building Safety Act framework. Together, the four buildings will make a substantial contribution to housing delivery within Victoria North, while adding further density and architectural variety to the evolving Red Bank skyline. The Gateway 2 process remains an important consideration for major residential developments, requiring detailed regulatory approval before construction can commence on higher-risk buildings. For developers and contractors, successfully navigating these requirements is increasingly central to maintaining project programmes and progressing high-rise residential schemes through to delivery. The latest appointments follow significant investment by FEC in the infrastructure and public realm needed to support the wider Red Bank neighbourhood. These improvements are helping establish the foundations for a connected residential community, with new homes being introduced alongside landscaped spaces and infrastructure intended to support long-term growth. Anthony Payne, Operations Director at FEC, welcomed the appointment and highlighted the progress being made across the regeneration programme. “With HG Construction on board we’re ready to deliver the exciting next phase of Red Bank,” he said. “Following significant investment in infrastructure and public realm, the neighbourhood is really taking shape, with new homes, green spaces and the next phases of development now coming forward.” For HG Construction, the £225 million package represents a major addition to its residential construction portfolio, with the contractor drawing on its in-house delivery capabilities to support the programme. The company plans to utilise its self-delivery expertise, including offsite-manufactured bathroom and utility pods, to improve construction efficiency, programme certainty and quality control across the developments. The use of offsite manufacturing techniques is becoming increasingly important in high-density residential construction, where standardised components can help streamline installation, reduce on-site activities and support consistent building quality. Adam Quinn, Chief Executive Officer at HG Construction, said the company’s integrated construction approach would be central to delivering the four buildings. “Our in-house self-delivery capabilities, including offsite bathroom and utility pods, allow us to mobilise efficiently while maintaining greater control over programme execution, quality and safety from the outset,” he said. “We look forward to working with FEC to deliver high-quality homes and help create a thriving new neighbourhood.” The Red Bank developments form part of the wider Victoria North regeneration programme, which is reshaping substantial areas to the north of Manchester city centre through residential development, infrastructure investment and the creation of new neighbourhoods. The introduction of FEC’s first build-to-rent development at NT02 also reflects the continued importance of professionally managed rental housing within Manchester’s expanding residential market. With construction on the first tower due to commence and the remaining three buildings progressing towards regulatory approval, the £225 million programme will establish another major phase of residential delivery at Red Bank. Once completed, the four developments will provide 895 additional homes, reinforcing Victoria North’s role in accommodating Manchester’s growing population and supporting the long-term regeneration of the city’s northern districts. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Developer Glenbrook has secured Gateway 2 approval from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) for its landmark 44-storey residential tower in Manchester, clearing a major regulatory hurdle and paving the way for Domis to commence construction in 2027. The 364-home development on Whitworth Street West, close to Deansgate station, has now secured planning permission, funding and the necessary building safety approval, providing a clear route towards delivering one of the latest additions to Manchester’s rapidly evolving skyline. Designed by architectural practice Sheppard Robson, the scheme will become Glenbrook’s tallest development to date and represents a significant addition to the company’s expanding residential portfolio across Greater Manchester. The project has also received an important financial boost, with Glenbrook securing £17 million from the Greater Manchester Good Growth Fund to address a development viability gap and help bring the scheme forward. The funding support highlights the challenges facing major residential developments, particularly high-rise projects where construction costs, regulatory requirements and financial viability continue to influence delivery programmes. With Gateway 2 approval now secured, the project can progress towards its construction phase, with Domis lined up to deliver the development. The 44-storey tower will provide 364 new homes alongside residential amenity facilities and improvements to the surrounding public realm, contributing to the continued regeneration of Manchester’s southern city centre. Its location close to Deansgate railway station and the Metrolink network places the development within one of Manchester’s best-connected residential and commercial districts, providing convenient access to employment, retail, leisure and hospitality destinations. The scheme will also contribute to the ongoing transformation of the area surrounding Whitworth Street West, where residential development continues to reshape former commercial and underutilised urban sites. Securing Gateway 2 approval represents a particularly important milestone under the Building Safety Act framework, which requires higher-risk residential buildings to receive regulatory approval before relevant construction work can begin. The process involves detailed scrutiny of building designs and safety arrangements, placing greater responsibility on developers, contractors and design teams to demonstrate compliance before progressing to the construction stage. Daniel Roberts, Development Director at Glenbrook, welcomed the approval and emphasised the importance of building safety throughout the project. “Health and safety is of paramount importance to Glenbrook and securing Gateway 2 approval represents a crucial milestone for Whitworth Street West, our tallest building to date,” he said. “The approval reflects the significant work undertaken by our team and project partners to progress the scheme through the BSR’s rigorous approvals process.” Roberts added that the milestone provides the confidence needed to advance the development towards construction. “We can now move into the next phase of delivery as we work towards bringing this landmark development forward and making a start on site in 2027.” The Whitworth Street West project will further strengthen Glenbrook’s presence in Greater Manchester, where its residential portfolio already includes Vox, Trilogy, High Definition, Duet and Lumina Village. The developer has established a growing track record of delivering residential schemes across the region, contributing to the expansion of Manchester’s urban housing market and the creation of new city centre neighbourhoods. For Domis, the anticipated construction appointment would represent another substantial high-rise residential project in Manchester, with the 44-storey building adding to the pipeline of major developments planned across the city. The project also reflects the continued importance of public and private sector collaboration in unlocking residential investment, with the £17 million Good Growth Fund contribution helping overcome financial barriers that might otherwise delay delivery. With the key regulatory and financial requirements now in place, attention will turn towards construction mobilisation and the planned 2027 start on site. Once delivered, the development will provide 364 additional homes within central Manchester, reinforcing the city’s ongoing residential growth and adding a prominent new landmark to its skyline. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A major milestone has been reached at Coventry’s transformational City Centre South regeneration project developed by The Hill Group, with the first tower now rising from the ground following the completion of demolition and extensive groundworks across the site. Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, Councillor George Duggins, Leader of Coventry Council and Councillor Lynnette Kelly, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change, joined Andy Hill OBE, Founder and Chief Executive of The Hill Group, and Regional Director, Stuart Bale, alongside Paul Loader, Director of Delivery & Aftercare at Legal & General, to celebrate the progress being made. The start of construction marks a significant step forward for one of the UK’s most ambitious city centre regeneration projects, paving the way for the transformation of Coventry city centre over the coming years.  Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “City Centre South is exactly the sort of ambitious regeneration project that will help drive growth, create jobs and deliver the homes our region needs. Seeing the tower rise is a clear sign that progress is being made and this long-awaited development is becoming a reality. “Importantly, this first building includes 200 affordable homes, making it easier to get good quality housing right in the middle of Coventry. And with the skills hub recently opened on site, we are helping to train and offer job opportunities to local people too.” Under an agreement with Legal & General, Hill is delivering the affordable homes in this first phase of the regeneration, comprising 145 homes for social rent and 55 for Shared Ownership.  These new homes will help to address local housing need while providing high-quality homes for people and families in Coventry. Andy Hill OBE, Founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, said: “Seeing the first tower emerge from the ground is an incredibly exciting moment for everyone involved in the project at City Centre South. After years of planning, preparation, and with demolition and groundworks now complete, local people can now start to see tangible progress being made on site and the vision for this part of Coventry becoming a reality.” The milestone follows significant demolition works, enabling and infrastructure works across the site, allowing construction of the first residential building to progress at pace. Paul Loader, Director of Delivery & Aftercare at Legal & General, said: “This is an important milestone for us and a visible sign of the progress being made. Through our partnership with Hill, we’re proud to be delivering the first 200 affordable homes here, helping more people access high-quality housing while supporting the wider regeneration of Coventry city centre. Through our role in delivering these affordable homes, we are pleased to support a partnership that is focused on meeting local housing need, contributing to affordable housing targets and bringing forward energy-efficient homes that will benefit Coventry for the long term.” City Centre South is transforming a large section of Coventry city centre, delivering up to 1,575 new homes, alongside vibrant public spaces, shops, restaurants, cafés and commercial opportunities. The first phase of the regeneration will provide 991 new homes, 8,000 square metres of commercial space and 17,000 square metres of public open space. As construction accelerates, the development is also creating employment and training opportunities for local people through a range of initiatives including The Skills Centre, which was recently launched to help local residents gain the qualifications needed to access careers in construction. Councillor Lynnette Kelly, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, said: “This is a landmark moment for Coventry. Over the last few months the City Centre South site has been transformed, and people can see it taking shape before their eyes. This development will bring lasting benefits for generations to come. And of course, it will also enable us to make some improvements to the market, which we know is really important to local people and the traders.” Naeem Akhtar, cabinet member for housing and communities, said, “The first tower rising from the ground represents much more than construction progress; it marks the delivery of much-needed affordable homes for local people, demonstrating our commitment to creating a city centre where people from all backgrounds can live, work and thrive.” For further information, visit City Centre South. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

McLaren Construction has secured a major building safety milestone for the £229 million second phase of Westminster City Council’s Ebury Bridge Estate regeneration, paving the way for construction to progress on 334 new homes in the heart of London. The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has granted Gateway 2 approval across four separate applications covering five residential buildings, providing the regulatory clearance required for the next stage of the ambitious redevelopment. The approval represents a significant breakthrough for one of Westminster’s largest council-led housing regeneration programmes, which will ultimately transform the former 1930s estate into a modern, mixed-tenure residential neighbourhood. Phase two is the largest of three planned development stages and follows the successful completion of the first phase, as Westminster City Council continues its programme to increase housing supply and address the growing demand for affordable homes across the borough. The wider Ebury Bridge Estate masterplan will deliver 781 new homes, supported by a network of interconnected public squares, a new retail parade and community facilities designed to create a more attractive and accessible neighbourhood. The regeneration aims to establish a high-quality residential environment, combining new housing with improved public spaces and amenities while strengthening connections across the surrounding area. Securing Gateway 2 approval has required months of detailed technical coordination between Westminster City Council, McLaren Construction and the wider project consultancy team. Under the Building Safety Act regulatory framework, Gateway 2 approval is a critical requirement before construction work can commence on higher-risk residential buildings. The process requires developers and contractors to demonstrate that proposed designs and construction arrangements meet the necessary building safety requirements. For the Ebury Bridge development, the complexity of the five-building phase meant that four separate applications were required, each involving detailed design information and supporting documentation. Paul Woodhams, Managing Director for Regeneration at McLaren Construction, highlighted the scale of the achievement. “This is a complex project with five buildings which required four separate building safety applications and approvals,” he said. The milestone provides greater certainty for the construction programme and enables the project team to move forward with the next stage of delivery. Councillor David Harvey, Westminster City Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, welcomed the decision and acknowledged the importance of collaboration between the local authority and its construction partner. “Collaboration with our main contractor McLaren has been key to achieving this milestone and it now gives the team the certainty needed to move ahead,” he said. He added: “I’m excited that this has been achieved and we can continue the momentum in delivering the largest council development in this part of Westminster in over 60 years.” The Ebury Bridge programme forms part of Westminster’s wider commitment to delivering new housing through the regeneration of existing estates, with an emphasis on creating mixed-tenure communities supported by improved local infrastructure. Alongside the residential accommodation, the planned retail and community facilities will play an important role in establishing a more active neighbourhood, while the interconnected public squares will provide additional outdoor space for residents and visitors. For McLaren Construction, securing the approvals represents an important achievement in navigating the increasingly demanding regulatory environment surrounding higher-risk residential developments. With Gateway 2 clearance now secured, the £229 million second phase can progress towards major construction activity, marking another significant step in the transformation of Ebury Bridge into a new residential neighbourhood for Westminster. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals